SPACE RESEARCH Students Selected for - Casa Grande Union High School District November 2021
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Casa Grande Union High School District ⬧ November 2021 ⬧
Students Selected for
SPACE RESEARCH
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 1
NOVEMBER 2021 . VOLUME 3
Casa Grande Union High School District
1362 N Casa Grande Ave
ON THE COVER
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
520-316-3360
Dr. Anna Battle
Superintendent
Ralph Belloc
Facilities Director
Sean Casey
Student Services Director
Melani Edwards
Curriculum & Instruction Director
Marilyn Gardner
Federal & State Programs Director
David Griffis
Information Technology Director Page 7
Lisa Miller
Career & Technical Education Director
Pam Reynolds
Human Resources Director
Gina Salazar
Business Services Director
Casa Grande Union High School
2730 N Trekell Rd
Casa Grande AZ 85122
520-836-8500
Brian Mabb
Principal
Greg Anderson
Assistant Principal, Curriculum/Instruction
Randy Robbins
Athletics & Activities Director
IN THIS ISSUE
Rebecca Spallinger
Assistant Principal, Discipline 3 Superintendent Letter 13 Marching Band
Staff Member of the Month
14 CGYS-SADD Silent Witness Night
Vista Grande High School 4 Principal Glenda Cole Retires NHS Water Drive Competition
1556 N Arizola Rd Culinary Arts
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 5 CTE Students of the Month Spartan P.R.I.D.E. Newsletter
520-876-9400 Rotary Students of the Month
15 City-Wide Cleanup
Jeanette Beechum 6 ASU-DoD Biotech Project
Interim Principal 16 Trick or Treat Drive Through
7 Students Selected for Space Research
Vance Danzy
17 CGUHS Homecoming
Assistant Principal, Discipline
8 Arizona STEM & Innovation Summit
Robert Pierce SEDS Model Rockets Built & Launched 18 VGHS Homecoming
Athletics & Activities Director SEDS Demonstrates Ion Thruster Model
SEDS Space Law, Policy, & Ethics SIG 19 Girls Soccer Tours GCU
Cardinals Football Camp
CGUHSD Online Academy 9 AP Scholars Recognized Pichon Qualifies for State Swim Meet
1362 N Casa Grande Ave Flores Named Player of the Week
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 10 QuestBridge National Scholarship Finalists
520-316-3360 ext. 5102 FAFSA Night 20 Transcripts/Education Verifications
COVID-19 Updates
Andrea Teran 11 School-Day ACT Exam Connect With Us
Administrator Grand Canyon University Visit Get To Know Your High School
PSAT/NMSQT Test
ASVAB Week 21 Career Opportunities
School-Day SAT Exam
CONNECT WITH US
22 Governing Board
12 Marine Corps JROTC
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 2
DISTRICT
FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. ANNA BATTLE
November 2021
Dear CGUHSD,
What a pleasure it is to have another opportunity to recognize a valued staff member in the CGUHSD Newsletter. Each month, I
will recognize an amazing member of the district for their Organizational Skills, Love of the Subject, Humility, Resilience, and
Love of the Challenge. Everyone who works in schools are valued educators. Certified, classified, and administrative staff are
teachers who make an impact on students and others each and every day. It is not about a title but, most importantly, it is about
the love, service, and dedication to excellence we are privileged to give that makes another smile and feel worthy, and improves
the quality of the culture where students are excited to learn.
The qualities below will remain constant each month as they are sound characteristics that capture the essence of educators in
schools.
Organizational Skills Love of the Subject Humility
The best buildings are built on a firm Students are much more apt to become The ability to accept that you aren’t
foundation. For an educator, that foundation excited about what they do for students always right about something is a quality
is great organizational skills. Organizational and have genuine enthusiasm. An educator that makes for a great educator. Great
skills provide the structure necessary to with a love for what they do is able to educators are willing to learn more than
care for so many pupils. give students the joy of sharing something one already knows.
they love.
Resilience Love of the Challenge
The hard days can leave you discouraged. A great educator sees a challenge and
Students are complex at times, but a is inspired by it. He/She does not avoid
great educator ensures that they are a challenging topic or student because
cooperating. Unruly students and unpredictable of its difficulty. Rather, a great educator
environments can leave an educator sees challenges as opportunities to 5 Qualities of an Exceptional Teacher
questioning the profession. The resilient grow and learn. At the end of the day, (alignstaffing.com)
educator perseveres. every educator is still a student and
possesses a desire to learn.
Staff Member of the Month
Ms. Colleen Wilhite is an unbelievably hard-working and gracious person. She loves her job and loves
to assist others. As the Vista Grande principal’s Administrative Assistant, she ensures that everyone she
comes into contact with is supported and has everything that is needed. Planning accordingly to assist
the principal is not an easy task. When I was a principal, I said that I am no better than my Administrative
Assistant. What she does is extremely important to the success of the school. Colleen ensures the
school calendar is updated, parents are supported, staff needs are met, and students know all about the
school and where to go to get what they need. Unpacking her day is next to impossible as she is always
moving, thinking, and planning to ensure things are running smoothly. I have the pleasure to see her
with a smile anytime she greets me. Her genuine and caring nature is a blessing to anyone who comes
Colleen Wilhite into contact with her. Please join me by congratulating Ms. Colleen Wilhite as the Staff Member of the
Month!
Congratulations! Go CGUHSD!!!
Sincerely,
Dr. Anna Battle
INSPIRING EXCELLENCE WITH PASSIONATE, PATIENT, PERSISTENT PERFORMANCE!!!
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 3
RETIREMENT
Principal Glenda Cole Retires: Legacy of Dedication & Support
Principal Glenda Cole Retires October 1
Best wishes to our beloved principal, Mrs. Glenda Cole, on your retirement. Thank you for your dedication and support to the
staff and families of Vista Grande High School and our district. You will be missed. Once a Spartan, always a Spartan!
Jeanette Beechum Named Interim Principal
Ms. Beechum previously held the position of Assistant
Principal. She is excited to step into this new role as
Interim Principal and continue serving the Vista Grande
community.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 4
STUDENT OF THE MONTH
CTE Student of the Month CGUHS
Zander Moore of Casa Grande High School was recognized on Tuesday, November 2, as the
Casa Grande Union High School District’s CGUHS Career & Technical Education (CTE) Student
of the Month at the district’s Governing Board meeting. Zander was nominated by Mike Wagner,
Construction Technologies Teacher, at Casa Grande Union High School. Mr. Wagner said,
“Zander is a Junior and in his 3rd year of Construction Technology at Casa Grande Union High
School. Complimenting his abilities in construction, he is also a JROTC cadet and avid classic
car restorer rebuilding his Mopar. In class, Zander is knowledgeable about tools and processes,
and has learned to manage projects and people to use their talents in effective ways to accomplish
the goal. He is eager to practice and learn while doing, but willing to put in the time and effort
required for technical academic content knowledge. Quiet, but not shy, and willing to take risk in
(L-R) Superintendent Dr. Anna Battle, answering questions in discussion, he is an asset to the Construction Technologies program and
Zander Moore, CTE Director Lisa Miller a future leader in the making. He also looks sharp in his JROTC uniform; just saying. Thanks for
being part of the Construction Technologies program. Continue to grow.” Zander’s parents are
Chad and Heather Moore of Casa Grande, Arizona.
CTE Student of the Month VGHS
Virginia Perez of Vista Grande High School was recognized on Tuesday, November 2, as the
Casa Grande Union High School District’s VGHS Career & Technical Education (CTE) Student
of the Month at the district’s Governing Board meeting. Virginia was nominated by Richard Contreras,
VGHS Construction Technologies Teacher, who had this to say about her: “Virginia Perez is a
3rd-year student in the Construction Technologies program and comes to this class with a desire to
work in the construction field after she graduates. Her future goals are to enroll at Central Arizona
College (CAC) and experience heavy-equipment operation. After graduating from CAC, Virginia
wants to transfer to a university to obtain a degree in Construction Management.” Virginia’s parents
(L-R) Superintendent Dr. Anna Battle, are Nicolas and Maria Perez of Maricopa, Arizona.
Virginia Perez, CTE Director Lisa Miller
Rotary Student of the Month CGUHS
Baruch Lim of Casa Grande Union High School (CGUHS) was recognized for his activities and
accomplishments on Tuesday, November 2, as the Casa Grande Union High School District’s
CGUHS Rotary Club of Casa Grande Student of the Month during the district’s Governing Board
meeting. Baruch is in the top 2% of the graduating seniors, holds a 4.598 GPA, and has consistently
received the academic excellence award all four years of high school. Recently, Baruch was one
of three CGUHS students to be named a finalist for the Questbridge National College Match program
which is quite an honor. He is a member of National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa (top 10% of
students at CAC), Culinary Arts Program, Speech & Debate Club (Vice President), and CGUHS
Pride of Casa Grande Marching Band, which recently earned 1st Place at the Casteel Band
Competition. Baruch competed in Brass Ensemble. He is also in the Regional Honor Band and is
(L-R) Superintendent Dr. Anna Battle, 3rd Chair Trombone and Virtual Chair. Although Baruch almost has enough credits to graduate,
Baruch Lim, Principal Brian Mabb he continues to take more challenging AP courses and has a full schedule while working part-time
at Wendy's. Baruch plans to study Computer Science and would like to attend Brown University
(BU), Arizona State University (ASU), or University of Southern California (USC). Baruch is the son
of Ah Yong Lim and Criselda Castillo Abital.
Rotary Student of the Month VGHS
Katherine Lara Quintero of Vista Grande High School was recognized on Tuesday, November 2,
as the Casa Grande Union High School District’s VGHS Rotary Club of Casa Grande Student of
the Month during the district’s Governing Board meeting. Katherine was recognized for her activities
and accomplishments: National Honors Society (President), S.A.C.C., Link Crew, JROTC (2-Yrs),
JROTC Sergeant (2019-20), Eloy’s Fiesta Volunteer, Electric Light Parade Volunteer (2-Yrs),
Toys for Tots Volunteer, Army Reserves Recruit, First-Generation College Student (2022), and
AP Spanish Exam (Score of 5). In her free time, she enjoys playing drums and bass. After high
school, she plans to study Pre-Med at the University of Arizona (UArizona) where she was
(L-R) Superintendent Dr. Anna Battle,
Katherine Lara Quintero, Interim Principal
awarded the Wildcat Excellence Scholarship then attend medical school to become a Cardiologist.
Jeanette Beechum She would like to remain in Arizona to be close to family. Katherine’s parents are Ernesto Irizarry
and Arely Luna.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 5
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM)
Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona: Implementation of a zero-cost K-12 pipeline will immediately engage 10 Arizona secondary
schools (with eight (8) Title I programs), 20 teachers, and nearly 300 students in inquiry-based biotechnology education every year.
This was a project that was started more than two years ago, in the depths of the COVID-19
pandemic. This project originated with Dr. Abhishek Singharoy, Assistant Professor, School
of Molecular Sciences and Associate Faculty, Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery
at Arizona State University (ASU).
Dr. Singharoy wanted to develop a high school biology curriculum that would allow students
to engage in research using resources available at ASU. Students would be able to follow
the curriculum and design experiments to be viewed at the molecular level using the $5 million
Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) at ASU, among other tools. These experiments would
be set up remotely by a lab technician at ASU and students would take control of the SEM
remotely from their classroom to conduct their research.
Another component to this was the use of the Virtual Molecular Dynamics (VMD) software. VMD
is a molecular visualization program for displaying, animating, and analyzing large biomolecular
John Morris systems using 3-D graphics and built-in scripting. Former CGUHS student Merlin D’souza
Engineering & Mathematics Teacher worked for over a year on this project learning VMD, learning to use the SEM remotely, and
actively participating in the writing of the biology curriculum, under the guidance of Dr.
Singharoy and is graduate students.
Interestingly, at the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Merlin and Mr. John Morris
were able use VMD to view the protein strand in the spike of the COVID-19 virus that enables
the virus to infect human cells.
Step one in obtaining funding for this project was to apply for and receive a National Science
Foundation grant to be used to train the educators initially involved with this project. Step
two was to apply for and receive the Department of Defense grant to implement the larger
scope of the project and get it into the schools. CGUHSD was brought into this picture with
its pledge to collaborate in this project and will now be able to benefit from that commitment.
Representing the Casa Grande Union High School District are John Morris and Noel Que,
both from Casa Grande Union High School.
Noel Que
Biotechnology & Science Teacher
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 6
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) Sophia Jorda & Ivanna Perez Selected for Space Research; GLEE Ambassadors CGUHS students Ivanna Perez (2022) and Sophia Jorda (2023) were selected to take part in a workshop that provided them with the skills and knowledge to design a scientific mission to the Moon. Over the next year, the students will collaborate with university students from around the world to not only develop their own spacecraft, but also to act as GLEE Ambassadors. GLEE (The Great Lunar Expedition for Everyone) is a mission to land 500 spacecraft, called “LunaSats,” on the surface of the Moon in 2023. This mission is led by the Colorado Space Grant Consortium at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and currently supported by NASA’s Artemis Student Challenges. Each participating university will design a local space mission for their spacecraft to carry out, as well as participate in a distributed project to characterize a larger area of the lunar surface. Both Ivanna and Sophia are excited to take part in a true scientific and technological demonstration project developed and managed by students for NASA. The data gained from this project will be made available to scientists from around the world. As GLEE Ambassadors, Ivanna and Sophia will provide remote technical assistance to 481 other teams as well as promote further exploration of the Moon. Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 7
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM)
SEDS Model Rockets Built & Launched
Check out Robert Zimmerman’s
(Behind The Black) posting called,
“An Example of Good Public School
Education”. In the posting, Zimmerman
discusses his experience on Saturday,
October 30, watching the Students for
the Exploration and Development of
Arizona STEM & Innovation Summit Space (SEDS) Club Space Propulsion
CGUHS students participated in the Arizona STEM & Innovation Summit. Some of the Systems Special Interest Group (SIG)
state’s top educators, researchers, and high-tech businesses showcased and discussed advised by John Morris, Engineering
emerging trends and products in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and Mathematics Teacher. The students
in the day-long event. There were dozens of interactive displays and presentations to launched model rockets they built
fire the imagination and enthrall visitors no matter their age or expertise. For information themselves. For the complete posting,
on STEM courses offered at CGUHS, visit www.cguhsd.org/cgClassrooms.aspx. click here.
SEDS SPS-SIG Successfully Demonstrates Ion Thruster Model
The Casa Grande Union High School SEDS (Students for the Exploration & Development of Space) Space Propulsion Systems
Special Interest Group (SPS-SIG) successfully demonstrated the operation of their version of the 0.1 Ion Thruster model. The
SIG, chaired by CGUHS junior Ivanna Perez, set out to demonstrate the principles of ion propulsion as is currently used on
NASA spacecraft exploring the solar system. The students are currently gathering data from the operation of this device to analyze
and make improvements to their device. Currently, the Ion Thruster is not performing as anticipated, but with more information
resulting from their study, the students are looking forward to discoveries that will lead to further success. The Cougars are advised
by John Morris, Engineering and Mathematics Teacher.
SEDS Space Law, Policy, & Ethics Special Interest Group
The Casa Grande Union High School SEDS (Students for the Exploration & Development of
Space) Space Law, Policy, and Ethics Special Interest Group (SIG) is developing a research
project team to examine how the government would allow enforceable contracts to build on oth-
er planets, handle civil disputes in space, grant/bar property rights over mined materials that are
privatized, and develop interspace roadway traffic regulations and systems, to name a few top-
ics of discussion. Students interested in law, policy, or ethics, as it applies to the Outer Space
Treaty of 1967, the Artemis Accords, or the U.S. Government, should contact Principal Investigator Dylan Benavente. The Space
Law, Policy, & Ethics SIG meets on Wednesdays after school in Room L100. The group is advised by John Morris, Engineering
and Mathematics Teacher.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 8
AP SCHOLARS
AP Scholars Recognized
On September 30, CGUHS AP teachers delivered yard signs to students who
earned qualifying scores on their AP tests taken in May 2021. Every fall, the College
Board AP Program recognizes high school students who have demonstrated out-
standing college-level achievement through their performance on multiple AP ex-
ams. The AP Scholar Award is granted to students who receive scores of “3” or
higher on three or more AP exams. For more information on AP courses offered at
CGUHS, visit www.cguhsd.org/cgCounselingAPCourses.aspx.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 9
COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
Three Named QuestBridge National Scholarship Finalists
Three CGUHS students were chosen as finalists for the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship. QuestBridge is a
pathway to a top college with a full four-year scholarship for high-achieving graduating seniors. Congratulations to Ariz Baruch
Lim, Betzaida Molina, and Alora Linehan. Students will be notified on December 1 if they are awarded the scholarship. For more
information about scholarships, visit www.cguhsd.org/cgCounselingScholarships.aspx.
FAFSA Night
The CGUHS Counseling Team hosted a successful FAFSA Night
on Thursday, October 21, in the library. Financial Aid Representatives
from Grand Canyon University (GCU) and University of Arizona
(UArizona) were available to assist parents and students with filling
out their FAFSA application. FAFSA opened on October 1. Seniors
are strongly encouraged to apply sooner rather than later. The
Cougars would like to send a special “Thank You” to GCU for
providing dinner, dessert, and drinks from Chick-fil-A to the students,
parents, and staff.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 10COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
School-Day ACT Exam
Juniors and Seniors had the opportunity to take the school-day ACT exam at CGUHS on Tuesday, October 19. Once scored,
results are sent to each student's MyACT account. ACT stands for American College Test. It is a standardized test that deter-
mines a high school graduate's preparedness for college.
PSAT/NMSQT Test
CGUHS Counselors administered the Preliminary SAT/National
Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) on Tuesday,
October 26. The PSAT/NMSQT measures what a student is
learning in school, determines if the student is on track, and
opens doors for opportunities to prepare and pay for college.
ASVAB Week
Grand Canyon University (GCU) Visit CGUHS School Counselors
The CGUHS Counseling Department welcomed Grand Can- kickstarted ASVAB (Armed
yon University (GCU) on Monday, September 27, to speak to Services Vocational Aptitude
students about their campus. There will be a GCU field trip for fifty Battery) Week with seniors
seniors in November. For information on post-secondary education, testing on September 28, 29,
visit www.cguhsd.org/cgCounselingPostSecondaryEducation.aspx. and 30.
School-Day SAT Exam
CGUHS Counselors administered the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) on Thursday, October 28. The SAT is a standardized test
meant to show schools how prepared a student is for college by measuring key skills such as reading comprehension, computa-
tional ability, and clarity of expression.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 11MARINE CORPS JROTC
JROTC Color Guard
JROTC Commemorates 20th Anniversary of 9/11
Immediately after the VGHS senior volleyball players
On Friday, September 10, Principal Vanessa Pierce introduced
were recognized at the volleyball game on October 26,
the Vista Grande High School Marine Corps JROTC Color Guard
first year cadets (L to R) Maya Barnett, Alexa Regan,
detachment cadets to the parents, community members, and
Gabrialla Noriz, and Johanna Lopez masterfully executed
entire student body of Legacy Traditional School in Casa
their Color Guard routine to the National Anthem. These
Grande, Arizona. The event’s atmosphere reflected the solemnity
new cadets practiced many hours to achieve the honor
of the occasion. As the music to the National Anthem was about
of being selected for the team. Cadets’ pride and sense
to begin, members of the audience were asked to remove their
of accomplishment were evident in their appearance
headgear, and many placed their hands over their hearts. The
and precision. The Spartan Marine Corps JROTC is
Color Guard detail presented the National Ensign and Marine
instructed by Dr. Tyrone Hall, CWO-3 (ret) and MSgt
Corps colors while other members of the group rendered appropriate
Jorge Rico. For more information on JROTC, visit
salutes during the singing of the National Anthem. The event
www.cguhsd.org/vgJROTC.aspx.
marked the 20th anniversary and remembrance of the 9/11 terrorist
attacks in New York City, Washington D.C, and near Shanksville,
Pennsylvania. Cadets represented VGHS in exceptional fashion. JROTC Support Request
The Spartan Marine Corps JROTC is instructed by Dr. Tyrone Please use this online form to provide information nec-
Hall, CWO-3 (ret) and MSgt Jorge Rico. Photo: [Front Row L-R] essary for effective support of your event.
Sarah Foerster (Rifle), Erin Swift (American Flag), Iliana Martinez
(Marine Corps Flag), and Shelby Fulks (Rifle); [Second Row L-R]
Aaliyah Skinner, Maya Barnett, Gabrialla Noriz, and Pristina
Valencia; [Third Row L-R] James Card, Armando Negrete, and
Aeridyn Sykes.
JROTC Presents Colors at Governing Board Meeting
On Tuesday, September 28, members of the Vista Grande High School Marine Corps
JROTC Color Guard detachment looked very sharp and impressive in their Dress Blue
uniforms as they stood poised to march forward and take center stage at the Governing
Board Meeting. The Governing Board, Superintendent, principals, teachers, parents,
students, and community members all rose to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The Spartan
Marine Corps JROTC is instructed by Dr. Tyrone Hall, CWO-3 (ret) and MSgt Jorge Rico.
Photo: [Foreground L-R] Gabrialla Noriz (with Marine Corps flag) and Pristina Valencia &
[Background L-R] Armando Negrete (with American Flag) and Sarah Foerster.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 12CGUHS MARCHING BAND
Dr. Anna Battle, CGUHSD Interim Superintendent, celebrates the Cougar’s success at the Casteel Marching Competition. The Pride of Casa Grande Marching
Band is instructed by Martin Hebda, Fine Arts Teacher. Visit their webpage at www.cguhsd.org/cgBand.aspx.
Casteel Marching Competition
On Saturday, October 23, CGUHS Pride of Casa Grande Marching Band performed at the
Casteel Marching Competition. There were over twenty bands in attendance, including several
top bands in the division. CGUHS finished in first place, with the highest score of the night, and received
top honors for General Effect, Visual Performance, and Percussion. In the Individual & Ensemble
Competition, various awards were earned: Woodwind Solo: Red Anguamea (4th Place), Aliyah
Garcia (5th Place), Samantha Simmons (6th Place), and Maya Winegrade (7th Place); Woodwind
Ensemble: Carlie Melton and Alex Nicholson (3rd Place); Brass Solo: Aracelly Ortiz (2nd Place);
Brass Ensemble: Baruch Lim, Benjamin Maroney, Drake Melton, Jake Villarreal, and Elian
Zuniga (1st Place); Percussion Solo: Cooper Hancock (1st Place) and Andy Lopez (3rd Place);
and Percussion Ensemble: Katie Bautista and Xavier Sotelo (1st Place).
Pride of Casa Grande
Finishes 2nd Place;
Headed to State
The Pride of Casa Grande
Marching Band competed at the
University of Arizona (UArizona)
Band Day on Saturday, October 30.
They finished in 2nd Place and Walden Grove Marching Festival
earned an Outstanding Percussion CGUHS Pride of Casa Grande Marching Band competed at the Walden Grove Marching
award. The Cougars head to Festival on Saturday, October 16. The Cougars finished in first place and received awards
state championships in November for earning the top scores in Music, Visual Performance, General Effect, Percussion, and
seeded second in the state. Color Guard. Photo (L-R): Aaron Aguirre and Sarah Scots, Drum Majors.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 13HAPPENINGS
Silent Witness Night
The VGHS CGYS-SADD (Casa
Grande Youth Alliance - Students
Against Destructive Decisions) host-
ed a Silent Witness Night on Tues-
day, September 28. The event pro-
moted community involvement and
suicide prevention & public aware-
ness. The Spartans are advised by
Cristina Salcido-Grigg, PE/Health/
English Teacher.
NHS Holds Water Drive Competition Culinary Arts
During September, the National Honor Society (NHS) held an
in-club water drive competition between juniors and seniors.
The result was 15 cases of water and $50 donated to the Casa
Grande Food Bank. Juniors took the win this time around.
Seniors are hoping to get the win in the spring when members Ms. Kim Rains and her Culinary Arts students baked and delivered
plan to have another drive. The Spartans are advised by Meagan cookies to the VGHS staff on Tuesday, October 19, to thank
Semore, PE/Health Teacher. them for all they do.
Spartan P.R.I.D.E. Newsletter
Check out the November newsletter at www.cguhsd.org/downloads/VG-Newsletter202111-Current.pdf.
Past editions are located at www.cguhsd.org/vgNewsletter.aspx.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 14CITY-WIDE CLEANUP: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2
VGHS Key Club, National Honor Society (NHS), and Student Council cleaned sections of Arizola, Cottonwood, Clements, and
Henness streets.
Thirty-two (32) CGUHS Key Club students arrived early in the morning to collect trash. After a great amount of hard work, twelve
(12) bags of trash were accumulated. Breakfast was served at the city’s recreation center compliments of Chick-fil-A. It was a fun
day for all. The Cougars are advised by Linda Cassidy, RN.
Twenty (20) CGUHS National Honor Society (NHS)
students joined together and collected numerous
bags of trash from the mile in front of the high school.
The mile is in memory of Tomas Pinon, a former
school employee, who died in 2009. NHS is spon-
sored by Kim Batina, Social Studies Teacher.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 15CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
Trick or Treat Drive-Through
On Saturday, October 30, CGUHS Student Council sponsored a drive-through trick-or-treating
event in the CGUHS parking lot. Approximately 20 clubs from CGUHS and community organiza-
tions passed out candy to over 300 cars and hundreds of children. Thank you to all the clubs and
organizations who participated and made this event a fun and successful night. The CGUHS Student
Council is advised by Stacy Brady, Science Teacher. CGUHS has many activities to get involved
in! Join a club today!
AzHOSA CGUHS Chapter Bilingual Multicultural Club CGUHS Elite Dance Company
Cougar Friends FCCLA Freshman Class
JROTC Key Club Link Crew
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 16CGUHS HOMECOMING CGUHS Homecoming Assembly, Parade, Bonfire, Pep Rally, Game Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 17
VGHS HOMECOMING VGHS Homecoming Assembly, Parade, Bonfire, Pep Rally, Game Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 18
ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
Girls Soccer Team Tours GCU & Cheer on Lady Lopes
Coach Cedric Collins, PE/CTE Teacher, and the members of the
Lady Spartan’s Soccer Team traveled to Grand Canyon University
(GCU) for a campus tour and soccer game on Thursday, October
28. The Spartans learned about the university and what it’s like to
be a college student-athlete.
Spartans Attend Cardinals Youth Football Camp
Members of the VGHS Football Team attended the Cardinals Youth Football Camp in October 2021.
Flores Named Player of the Week
The Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl
(@theARIZONABOWL) named CGUHS
Quarter Back Angel Flores the High School
Player of the Week for his performance at
the Friday, October 15, football game. Flores
threw three touchdowns and ran for another
two, earning him the honor. The Cougars,
coached by Jake Barro, blanked Sahuaro 48-0
behind Flores.
Pichon Qualifies for State Swim Meet
Titouan Pichon will represent Casa Grande Union High School at the DII State Swim Meet in the 100 Backstroke (#15) (57.81)
and 100 Butterfly (#28) (59.62) on Friday, November 5, at Skyline High School. DII high schools can send swimmers if they
make the top 32 times in the state. Titouan also earned a State Provisional Time in the 50 Free Stroke (24.02). The Cougars are
coached by Kim Batina. Visit their webpage at www.cguhsd.org/cgSwimming.aspx.
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 19RESOURCES
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◼ COVID-19 Benchmarks & Cases
◼ Crisis Hotlines
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Vista Grande High School
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vghs.cghsd.org
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Did you Know? ◼ Classrooms
CGUHSD Online Academy
There are approximately 3,926 students* enrolled in our ◼ COVID-19
cgoa.cguhsd.org
school district. * 10/29/2021
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 20CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Apply Today!
To search open job listings or begin a new application,
click below.
https://cguhsd.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx
◼ Assistant Baseball Coach
◼ Assistant Basketball Coach
◼ Assistant Director of Student Data & State Compliance
◼ Assistant Football Coach
◼ Assistant Soccer Coach
◼ Assistant Softball Coach
◼ Assistant Volleyball Coach
◼ Athletic Trainer & Teacher
◼ Attendance Clerk
◼ Clerk/Title I Student Parent Advocate
◼ CTE Early Childhood Education Paraprofessional
◼ CTE Marketing Paraprofessional
◼ Custodian
◼ Electrician
◼ English Teacher
◼ Future Certified Positions
◼ Guidance Counselor
◼ Head Softball Coach
◼ Head Tennis Coach
◼ Head Track Coach
◼ Health Office Clerk
◼ IT Support I Service Center Technician
◼ Mathematics (Algebra) Teacher
◼ Mobile Tutoring Paraprofessional
◼ Native American Educational Liaison
◼ Plumber
◼ Security Officer
◼ Special Education Paraprofessional
◼ Title I Edgenuity Paraprofessional
◼ Title I Read 180 Paraprofessional
◼ Volunteer
To apply for a specific job, click "Apply" on the right side of
that specific listing. You will receive a confirmation number
when your application is complete. Your information is
then saved, allowing you to return at any time to submit
additional applications. Please be sure to remember your
username and password for use on future applications.
More Info >
www.cguhsd.org/doApplications.aspx
Updated 11/08/2021
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 21GOVERNING BOARD
Governing
Board
Governing Board Members (L to R): Jack Henness, Joe Lopez, Taylor Kerby, Kelly Herrington, and Chuck Wright. Regular
Governing Board Meetings are held the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the District Office in the CGUHSD Board
Room (1st Floor) and LIVE via our YouTube Channel.
President: Jack Henness was a CGUHSD Board Member from 1999-2010. In 2020, he was selected by Pinal County School Superintendent
Jill Broussard from a pool of four (4) applicants to fill the seat vacated by Mr. Salcido. He was selected CGUHSD Board President in January
2021. jhenness@cguhsd.org
Member: Kelly Herrington has lived in Arizona for over 20 years and in the Casa Grande area for the past five (5) years. She earned a Marketing
degree at the University of Arizona. She has two (2) children who are in the Casa Grande school districts and their educational welfare as well
as all the other children in the area is of utmost importance to her. Kelly is very involved in our community and wants its continued growth and
success. She is a local Realtor and Sales Manager for her brokerage in Casa Grande. She also sits on the Executive Board for WeSERV
is also very important to her. Kelly has been the Co-Chair for the Realtor Memorial Run for the past four (4) years benefiting the Casa Grande
Alliance Cancer Support Center and has also been involved in the Realtor Golf Tournament benefiting the Boys and Girls Club. Kelly loves her
community and the opportunity to serve for its continued growth and success. kherrington@cguhsd.org
Member: Taylor Kerby is a full-time educator in the Chandler district. After graduating from Arizona State University (ASU), Taylor completed
dual master’s degrees in Education and Religion at Claremont Graduate University. He is currently a doctoral student at Grand Canyon University
where he will graduate in October 2022. He and his wife, both Arizona natives, are the proud parents of two girls and enjoy spending time
together as a family. tkerby@cguhsd.org
Pro Temp: Joe Lopez, originally from California, has been an Arizona resident for 18 years. He is an ASE Master Technician and has worked
in the automotive repair industry for 43 years as a technician, service manager, successful business owner, and as an instructor. He owned
and operated an auto repair shop in San Jose, California, for twenty years, and his business in Casa Grande has been in operation since
2013. He has great dedication to the field of automotive technology, as well as to education and community service. Joe is a member of the
Kiwanis Club of Casa Grande, and was president of the club for the 2017-2018 term; he was a Kiwanis Club of Willow Glen member (San Jose, CA)
for 19 years and was a two-time past president in that club. Joe taught automotive technology at both Central Arizona College and at Casa
Grande Union High School. He and his wife, Rachel, have been married for 20 years. Joe enjoys desert landscaping, serving in the community,
and helping people. He considers himself to be a life-long learner. rhlopez@gmail.com
Member: Chuck Wright is a Casa Grande native, growing up in a farming family in the Greenes Reservoir area south of Arizona City. Chuck
has three sons, all of whom have graduated from CGUHS. Chuck is an Industrial Designer, specializing in architectural design. He has been
self-employed in his own business, Pinal Design Group LLC, in Casa Grande for 34 years. Chuck has previously served on this boar d in
1997-2001, serving two terms as president. He is past Chairman of the Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce and also chairman of the
Arizona City Sanitary District. Chuck also currently serves on the City of Casa Grande’s Board of Adjustments. chuck.wright@pinaldesign.com
Casa Grande Union High School District . 1362 N Casa Grande Ave . Casa Grande, AZ . 85122 . Inspiring Excellence . November 2021 . Volume 3 . Page 22You can also read
